Aug 7, 2026

48 min

Gardening Tips & Protecting Pollinators: The Master Gardeners Program | Episode #33

Thank you to Wayne Lumber & Supply for sponsoring this episode! Visit https://waynelumbersupply.com/ for more information and details.

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There is nothing quite like the feeling of stepping out into the garden and harvesting food you grew with your own two hands. In this episode of the GreeneScene Podcast, hosts Shelly Brown and TR Mahle sit down with two neighbors who are passionate about helping our county bloom: Cheryl Brendel, County Coordinator for the Greene County Master Gardeners, and long-time Master Gardener John Areford.

Whether you are trying to wrangle local deer away from your garden, curious about new pollinators visiting your squash patches, or dealing with a mysterious blight on your tomato plants (which is actually what first brought John to the program), Cheryl and John are here to show us that help is always just a phone call away. Best of all, the Penn State Extension Master Gardener helpline and community resources are completely free for all Greene County residents!

In this episode, we’re digging into:

> Rooted in Community: Learning science-based gardening knowledge and sharing it right back with neighbors across the county.

> Wild Neighbors & Garden Pests: How the shift in natural habitats have affected our local deer and wildlife populations, plus practical, real-world tips (like proper fencing) to protect your harvest.

> Insects, Bees, and Blight: A fascinating look at new native pollinators, like a newly discovered bee species attracted specifically to squash, and how to spot invasive plants and insects making their way into Pennsylvania.

> Growing Your Own Food: Why home gardening and programs like "Seed to Supper" are more important now than ever for local families.

To reach out to the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Greene County, visit extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/greene

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Follow the GreeneScene Community Magazine on social media for more:
> Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreeneSceneCommunityMagazine
> Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenescenecommunitymagazine

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Executive Producer: Pam Marisa
Producers: Vicky Hughes & Sandy Wilson
Hosts: Shelly Brown, Dolly Throckmorton, & TR Mahle
Audio Editor/Manager: Jacob Ahlbrand

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For more information on the GreeneScene Community Magazine, visit https://greenescenemagazine.com.

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